To perform a meta-analysis review of the evidence for clinical effectiveness of Z-drug hypnotics for insomnia which includes data from the FDA provided for the approval of drugs and which may include both published and unpublished data and to provide recommendations for areas of primary research based primarily on the meta-analysis.

Methods

Data were obtained on all clinical trials submitted to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the licensing of the three newer hypnotic Z-drugs– zopiclone, eszopiclone, zaleplon and zolpidem. We will analyse efficacy of the drugs across the baseline score on the particular efficacy indicator. We will determine for each meta-analysis the weighted mean of the effect sizes.

Outcomes

The study has been completed and published.

Outputs

Peer reviewed publications

Our research paper in the BMJ has had over 140 citations since its publication in 2012.